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How Safe Are Breast Implants? What You Should Know About the New Link to Cancer

The Food and Drug Administration’s report of nine deaths linked to a rare form of cancer associated with breast implants is bringing a new round of attention to the country’s most popular form of cosmetic procedure. The cancer, called anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL), affects the immune system and often first appears in the skin or lymph nodes—more specifically, the capsule of scar tissue surrounding the implants. This particular lymphoma is rare, and the majority of cases occurred in patients with textured implants filled with silicone gel or saline, rather than the more commonly used smooth ones. Doctors say this type of cancer is largely treatable when detected early, but women who’ve had reconstructive surgery or augmentation must remain equally vigilant about lumps, pain, or any changes in the shape or size of their breasts.

Though only a small portion of women in the United States could be impacted, the findings raise important questions for those considering the procedure: Namely, how safe are breast implants in general, and could they actually increase your risk for developing cancer? According to Dr. Alex Wong, a plastic surgeon and researcher at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, the answer is “very safe.” With a long history of use and testing (the modern breast prosthetic was first developed in 1961) there is an enormous body of scientific research on the subject to date. “I’ve been told they’ve been among the most investigated implants known to man,” confirms Wong.

While Dr. Deanna J. Attai, a UCLA Health breast surgeon and past president of the American Society of Breast Surgeons cautions that “all surgery carries the potential for complications,” the devices have not been associated with a heightened risk of other cancers. More commonly, post-surgical issues arise from capsular contracture (scar tissue that can squeeze the implant), pain, tears in saline implants, or ruptures in silicone gel–filled devices. And, as with any implanted device, additional surgeries may be required. The FDA warns patients that “breast implants are not lifetime devices.” Attai says, “The longer women have them, the greater the likelihood of complications.”

Fortunately, most problems associated with implants generally resolve once the devices are removed. Wong says the same is true of ALCL cancer. “When we remove the capsule [created by scar tissue] and implant, the patient is usually completely cured,” says Wong. Though he warns, “If left unattended, this cancer can turn into something fatal.” Attai and Wong agree that this FDA report shouldn’t dissuade women from getting implants completely, but both say women should know about this new risk when considering reconstructive breast surgery or augmentation.

Nevertheless, Attai warns women with implants—and those without—to be self-aware. “Don’t ignore any lumps or swelling, and don’t have your health concerns brushed off. Get another opinion if you still feel uneasy.” Yearly checkups are important for all women, regardless of implants, she says, and breast cancer patients in recovery should get imaging at least once a year (those with more recent diagnoses should be checked two to four times a year). “Any change needs to be reported.”

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